Calpeia: The First Gibraltarian and Neolithic Migration to Andalucia

Image Source: https://www.archaeology.wiki/blog/2019/09/18/unveiling-of-calpeia/
Calpeia, a name that reverberates through the annals of history, marks a significant discovery that has reshaped our understanding of Neolithic migration patterns in Southern Europe. The first known Gibraltarian, Calpeia, provides compelling evidence that Neolithic people migrated from Gibraltar to Andalucia, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s history and cultural development.
- The woman was found in 1991 and she has now been named Calpeia by experts
- Researchers think the Neolithic woman was between 30 and 40 when she died
- The beautiful woman was brought to life a part of a six-month project
- Believed she may be of Turkish descent or a potential native of Gibraltar
The Discovery of Calpeia
The remains of Calpeia were unearthed in Gibraltar, a territory known for its rich historical tapestry. Archaeologists discovered a well-preserved skeleton dating back to the Neolithic era, around 4,000 BCE. Through meticulous analysis and advanced techniques such as DNA sequencing, researchers were able to paint a detailed picture of Calpeia’s life and her significance in the broader context of prehistoric migrations.
Neolithic Gibraltar: A Hub of Activity
Gibraltar, situated at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, has always been a strategic location. During the Neolithic period, it was a vibrant hub for early human communities. The region’s favorable climate, abundant resources, and strategic position made it an ideal place for Neolithic settlers.
Archaeological findings, including tools, pottery, and evidence of early agriculture, indicate that Neolithic people thrived in Gibraltar. These early inhabitants engaged in farming, fishing, and hunting, laying the foundations for more complex societal structures.
Image Source: Quora
The Migration to Andalucia
The discovery of Calpeia’s remains is crucial in understanding the migration patterns of Neolithic people from Gibraltar to Andalucia. Genetic analysis revealed that Calpeia’s DNA closely matches that of early Neolithic populations in Andalucia, suggesting a direct migratory link.
Researchers believe that as the population in Gibraltar grew, groups began to move northward into what is now modern-day Andalucia. This migration was likely driven by the search for new arable land, resources, and opportunities for trade and interaction with other emerging Neolithic communities.
Reference:
- https://extremelyinterestingfacts.quora.com/Reconstruction-of-the-head-of-a-Neolithic-woman-who-lived-in-Gibraltar-7-500-years-ago
- https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-7481499/Scientists-recreate-face-beautiful-Neolithic-woman-Gibraltar.html